U.S. State Population Changes for 2010 to 2011

The U.S. Census Bureau recently released its 2011 population estimates for the nation and states. The U.S. population increased 2.8 million individuals (.9%) with Texas’ gaining approximately 18.6% of the total country’s growth. Furthermore, Texas was first in percentage of population growth for the states with an increase of 2.1% (529,120 persons) from April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2011. Second place was Utah with 1.9% growth (53,337 persons). Texas and Utah was followed by Alaska (1.8% – 12,487 persons), Colorado (1.7% – 87,600 persons), and North Dakota (1.7% – 11,341 persons) to round out the top five.

The 2011 ranking of population estimates did not change from the ranking of 2010. California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Illinois continued to make up the top five most populated states.

Rhode Island, Michigan, and Maine were the only states that loss population during this span of time. Maine remained relatively stable with only the loss of 173 persons.

California, although not in the top ten for percent increase, remains in the top slot for the most populated state and the only state above 30 million (37 million). However, if the growth rate of Texas continues, its population will come close to 30 million persons by the next decade.